Advanced Industrial Fluid Dynamics Lab

Lab Objectives

• Study head losses and friction in fluids o Analyse head losses in straight pipes and at fittings or accessories. o Determine the differences between distributed and local head losses. o Test how flow rate, diameter and pipe roughness affect energy losses.
• Apply the fundamental principles of fluid dynamics o Apply the Darcy -Weisbach equation and the concepts of static, dynamic and total pressure. o Understand the influence of flow conditions (laminar and turbulent) on losses. o Link experimental measurements with the theoretical equations of fluid motion.
• Acquire operational and data analysis skills o Use water manometers and electronic sensors to measure pressure and head. o Acquire data with digital recording systems and interpret it using dedicated software. o Compare manually and automatically collected data to assess accuracy and reliability.

Educational Aims

• Consolidate theory with practice: turn hydraulics formulas into concrete observations through real experiments.
• Build experimental skills in the use of manometers, pressure sensors, flow meters and data acquisition software.
• Develop critical analysis skills: identify measurement errors and interpret discrepancies between theoretical and experimental data.
• Promote teamwork and the organisation of tests, improving collaboration skills in technical and scientific contexts.
• Prepare students for professional and academic contexts: provide skills useful for civil, environmental and industrial engineering and for managing fluid-dynamic plants.

Conclusion

By the end of the lab activities, students will have: 1. Gained an in-depth understanding of friction and head loss phenomena in hydraulic systems, both distributed and local. 2. Developed practical and digital skills for collecting, processing and analysing experimental data. 3. Developed the ability to interpret and correlate theory and practice, recognising the importance of experimentation in the design and testing of hydraulic installations. 4. Acquired a scientific, methodical approach to technical testing, preparing for professional and university applications. This lab is a bridge between theory and practice, offering students a complete experience of measuring, analysing and critically evaluating fluid-dynamic phenomena. This solution includes technology systems that support inclusion and equal opportunities through the use of innovative teaching methods. It is designed to promote active and collaborative learning.